Abstract
Myanmar regularly experiences severe cyclones (three in the past 10 years), storm surges, floods, landslides, major earthquakes (two in the past 10 years). In addition it is torn by conflict, drought and forest fires. Recent policies by the Myanmar government have set new aims for healthcare provision within the country. Addressing disparities between rural communities and urban health care provision is a priority. The aim of this study was to identify the primary health needs of a rural population in Myanmar, to inform the planning and design of future initiatives. The study was conducted at a Red Cross clinic in rural Myanmar. Clinical parameters were measured on all consenting patients and health related quality-of-life data was collected using a short survey. We found a high rate of comorbidities and lifestyle modifiable risks factors such as hypertension and areca nut use within the population (33% n=43 and 52% n= 68 respectively). Within the six quality-of-life domains, the population had and lower than average mean scores for the social functioning, mental health and health perception domains (61.8, 63.3 and 50.6 respectively). Gender difference was noted, with women having lower quality-of-life scores than men in all of the six health domains. Correlations were found between the clinical and lifestyle risk factors. For example, those who consumed betel nut, had a significantly lower mean mental health domain score compared to the rest of the sample (67 v 60 respectively; p=0.04). Subjects identified as overweight were significantly more likely to have hypertension (P = 0.001) and lower scores in the SF20 physical functioning domain compared to the normal and underweight groups (P=0.006). There was no statistically significant difference in co morbidities and SF 20 scores between those who had access to doctors and those who did not. In conclusion, nurse, voluntary health worker or midwife lead health promotion activities, which target modifiable risk factors, may result in improved healthcare in this community.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proc 5th World Society of Disaster Nursing Conference |
Subtitle of host publication | Future Challenges for Global Disaster Risk Management - Evidence based Research and Powerful Competencies Needed for Nurses |
Publisher | Universitat Bremen |
Pages | 67-67 |
Number of pages | 1 |
Publication status | Published (in print/issue) - 18 Oct 2018 |
Event | World Society of Disaster Nursing: 5th Research Conference - SWISS HOTEL, BREMEN , Germany Duration: 18 Oct 2018 → 19 Oct 2018 http://www.wsdn.link/bbs/board.php?bo_table=3_2&wr_id=5 |
Conference
Conference | World Society of Disaster Nursing |
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Abbreviated title | WSDN |
Country/Territory | Germany |
City | BREMEN |
Period | 18/10/18 → 19/10/18 |
Internet address |